Abstract

PINEDO HERNANDEZ, José et al. Optimization of pH and TiO ₂ levels on the mercury removal in a photocatalytic recirculation system with UV-Lamp irradiation. Ing. Desarro. [online]. 2017, vol.35, n.2, pp.305-319. ISSN 0122-3461.

Progressive degradation of water resources, generated by human activities such as mining and agriculture, represents one of the main environmental issues that humanity faces. The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the heterogeneous photocatalysis process, TiO2-catalyzed under artificial UV irradiation, in the mercury removal from mining effluents. To optimize photocatalytic process conditions, the response surface methodology was used, effects of pH and TiO2 concentration over mercury removal efficiency were evaluated. The model found and expressed through a second-order equation explains in a 77,87% variability of results. The prediction of the model showed a maximum removal efficiency of 98,53% obtained for a pH of 6,98 and a concentration of TiO2 of 0,51 g/L. Langmuir-Hinshelwood pseudo second order kinetic model was achieved under the optimal conditions.

Keywords : heterogeneous photocatalysis; removal kinetics; mercury; response surface methodology; mining effluent treatment.

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